Marion Atherton

Marion Atherton, Executive Director of Berkeley Symphony

Marion Atherton is the Executive Director of the Berkeley Symphony, a position she assumed in February 2024.135 She is a strategic and results-driven arts administrator with over 20 years of experience.4

Prior to becoming Executive Director, Atherton served in various roles at the Crowden Music Center, including Chief Operating Officer and Interim Crowden School Principal.2 She has extensive experience with program creation and management, as well as managing faculty, parent, and student relationships.2

Atherton grew up in a musical family, majored in music at Yale, and earned her MA in Music Education from Teachers College at Columbia University.2 She finds joy in working in musical environments and watching students engage with music and grow.2

As Executive Director, Atherton partners with the Berkeley Symphony's Music Director to develop and implement strategies to raise public awareness and engage support for the organization.1 She oversees fundraising activities, communications, and patron services.1

Under Atherton's leadership, the Berkeley Symphony's 2024-25 season will feature a diverse range of concerts that combine innovative new works with traditional classical repertoire.6 The season promises to engage the curiosity, spirit, and intellect of the audience.6